Mercedes SLS AMG E-Drive sets new Nurburgring record

The electrified version of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG put some emphasis on the green side of Green Hell last week, circling Nürburgring's northernmost circuit in record time. According to Mercedes, its SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is the first electrically-powered series production vehicle to shoot around the world's most famous piece of track in under eight minutes.

The electric-banana yellow E-Drive circled the 'Ring in 7:56.234. That time is well down the list of overall times led by Radical's 6:48, but it's at the top of the pack for production EVs.

"The record for the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive in 7:56.234 minutes on the Nordschleife shows the special position of our innovative and unique drive solution," says Tobias Moers, Head of Overall Vehicle Development. "With the extremely efficient battery technology deriving from Formula 1, four electric motors positioned close to the wheels, the individual wheel torques AMG Torque Dynamics, the SLS eSound and our ambitious AMG Lightweight Performance design strategy, the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive generates a breathtaking sensation unlike any other model out on the road."

The record is a timely one. Mercedes will launch the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive this month. The car isn't just a milestone in electric design; it's the flagship Mercedes AMG, offering 751 hp and 738 lb-ft (1,000.6 Nm) of torque from its four wheel-mounted motors. That's close to 130 hp more than the hardcore SLS AMG Black Series. The all-wheel drive with AMG Torque Dynamics allows for selective distribution of power to each wheel, providing optimal traction in all driving conditions.

The E-Drive's other performance numbers are as impressive as its Nürburgring time. It accelerates to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). It can also travel an impressive 155 miles per charge, according to its spec sheet.

All that high-tech performance will cost buyers a very pretty penny. The E-Drive bases in at €416,500 (US$550,000), making it the most expensive Mercedes on offer. It will launch in Europe this month, but Mercedes has no current plans to offer it in the United States.